This Four Seasons sits on a large, attractive beach on the small island of Nevis. The gorgeous rooms here may be the highlight; the updated decor has a Ralph Lauren-like look, with a blue-and-yellow scheme accented by pops of color and dark wood furniture; the massive bathrooms feature separate showers and tubs. Plus, almost all rooms have beautiful views, of either mountains or the ocean. The hotel's remote location makes this a popular pick for couples on a romantic getaway. But with its long list of on-site amenities, this resort is well-suited for families as well. There are three pools, multiple tennis courts, a golf course, and a kids' club. The spa is a bit small by Four Seasons standards, but this hotel is top-notch -- and worth the time it takes to get there.

This 392-room resort is a Marriott for certain, but it's on the higher end for the chain (certain aspects are on par with the Four Seasons Resort, and it's nicer than the Nisbet in Nevis). This is thanks mostly to grounds' very updated look: paint and masonry look fresh, and the spacious rooms have flat-screen TVs and plenty of natural light (though decor is generic). There are plenty of pools, which helps to thin out the hotel's boozy, sun-worshipping crowds. Unlike other chain hotels, the Marriott does not offer day passes for cruise passengers, freeing the property of a common headache in the Caribbean.

The Montpelier Plantation has a picturesque setting atop a hill overlooking the ocean, and 60 acres of lush grounds. Everything here is refined and elegant, from the unobtrusive but top-notch service, to the island-inspired decor with a modern twist, to the fine dining options -- one of which is housed in a 300-year-old historic sugar mill. However, some might find it somewhat stuffy for an island vacation. Plantation Rooms are completely tech-free and lack all the modern amenities featured in Garden Rooms (flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, Wi-Fi) to help guests indulge in the slow Caribbean rhythm. They aren’t as luxurious as other room types, though, and could use a thorough renovation. The pretty sandy beach is a 15-minute drive away, but the hotel offers free shuttle service.

Located right on a pretty beach in northern Nevis, this upscale property is a great spot for a romantic getaway. Its 36 airy, cottage-style rooms offer lots of privacy, and are tastefully decorated in green and brown hues. They have wonderful in-room amenities, including custom-stocked minibars, but overall they don't quite deliver the level of luxury expected at this hefty price tag. Service is attentive, and unexpected extras such as hiker GPS systems, Flip video cameras, and tennis and croquet equipment -- all available free of charge -- demonstrate the Nisbet's attention to detail. The varied dining options, the pleasant pool and the beautiful setting on the beach are all highlights. However, it's worth comparing prices with the Four Seasons Resort Nevis.